Dozens of teachers gathered in front of the Portuguese Parliament in Lisbon to denounce the government's underinvestment in education and lack of response to the sector's problems, as presented in the 2027 State Budget proposal. The protest, called by the National Teachers' Federation (Fenprof), brought together teachers who expressed concerns about the scarcity of educators, thousands of students missing classes every week, and the deterioration of public schools.
The protest took place on the same day that the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation, Fernando Alexandre, was being heard in parliament as part of the State Budget discussion. The demonstrators carried union flags and chanted slogans, calling for effective investment in public schools, higher education, and science. According to José Costa, secretary-general of Fenprof, the problems in education are numerous and require urgent attention.
The lack of teachers is particularly severe among first-cycle students, who often have only one teacher and no substitute when that teacher is absent. José Costa estimated that around 3,000 to 4,000 first-cycle students currently lack a teacher. Fenprof argues that a policy of public investment is needed to value professionals, guarantee working conditions for institutions, and defend a quality, inclusive, and democratic public school.
The National Teachers' Federation considers the 2027 State Budget proposal insufficient in addressing long-standing problems in the education sector. In a statement, the federation demanded the valorization of teaching careers and salaries, a fundamental option to combat the severe teacher shortage problem. According to Fenprof, the proposal fails to provide consistent responses to these challenges.
The teachers' protest highlights the need for urgent measures to address the crisis in the education sector. The scarcity of teachers and poor school conditions are major concerns that require immediate attention from the government. The protesters emphasized that the fight for better education will continue in schools and on the streets.
The event was reported by RecordTV Cabo Verde and other media outlets. The government has not yet commented on the specific demands made by the teachers. The 2027 State Budget proposal is still under discussion in parliament.
The protest reflects a broader concern about the future of education in Portugal. The valorization of teaching professionals and the improvement of school conditions are essential to ensuring quality education for all students. The National Teachers' Federation has called for a sustained effort to address these challenges and promote positive change in the education sector.
Key points
- The protest was called by the National Teachers' Federation (Fenprof) to denounce underinvestment in education.
- The lack of teachers is particularly severe among first-cycle students.
- The National Teachers' Federation demands the valorization of teaching careers and salaries to combat teacher shortages.
